Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods in the United States. Millions of Americans travel to visit family and friends, making flights and hotels more expensive and crowded. However, with smart planning, travelers can still find affordable options and enjoy stress-free trips. This guide provides practical tips for booking cheap flights and hotels during Thanksgiving.
- Book Early, But Not Too Early
Flights and hotels tend to spike in price a few weeks before Thanksgiving. Data shows that booking 6–8 weeks in advance often offers the best balance between availability and price. Waiting too long can lead to sold-out flights and hotels, while booking too early may not guarantee the lowest fare.
- Be Flexible With Dates
Flexibility is key to saving money during peak travel periods. Try:
Flying a few days before or after the peak Thanksgiving dates
Avoiding Wednesday, which is traditionally the busiest travel day
Considering Tuesday or Saturday departures, which may be cheaper
Even a one-day shift can result in significant savings.
- Consider Alternate Airports
Large U.S. cities often have multiple airports. For example:
New York: JFK, LGA, EWR
Chicago: ORD, MDW
Los Angeles: LAX, ONT, BUR
Flying into a smaller airport or a nearby city can save money and reduce travel stress.
- Set Fare Alerts
Airline prices fluctuate frequently during high-demand periods. Using fare alert tools helps you monitor price drops:
Google Flights Track Prices
Skyscanner Price Alerts
Kayak Fare Alerts
Hopper App Predictions
Alerts ensure you book at the lowest possible price without checking manually every day.
- Check Hotel Deals Early
Hotels near major airports or in city centers tend to fill up quickly during Thanksgiving. Tips to save:
Book hotels in advance
Consider nearby suburban areas for lower rates
Look for package deals that include flights and hotels
Check for last-minute hotel discounts if flexibility allows
- Use Loyalty Programs and Rewards
Frequent flyers and hotel loyalty programs can significantly reduce travel costs:
Airline miles can cover full or partial tickets
Hotel points can reduce or even eliminate nightly rates
Some credit cards offer travel rewards or cash-back for holiday bookings
- Plan Ground Transportation
During Thanksgiving, ride-share apps and taxis may be more expensive due to high demand. Renting a car in advance can save money and provide flexibility, especially if traveling to multiple destinations.
- Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Fees
Airlines often charge more for checked bags during peak seasons. Packing efficiently with carry-on luggage can:
Save money
Reduce waiting time at check-in
Make travel smoother
Conclusion
Traveling during Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. By planning early, being flexible with dates and airports, monitoring prices, and using loyalty rewards, travelers can find cheap flights and affordable hotels. Following these tips will make your Thanksgiving trip across the United States more enjoyable and budget-friendly.